Meningitis is a serious infection that can lead to severe health complications, including inflammation of the brain and spinal cord linings. This condition can progress rapidly and, in some cases, result in death or lasting disabilities. Vaccination serves as a primary preventive measure against specific types of meningitis. This article provides guidance on the various meningitis vaccines and their recommended schedules.
Understanding Meningitis Vaccines
No single vaccine protects against all forms of meningitis, as various bacteria and viruses can cause the disease. Meningococcal vaccines primarily target Neisseria meningitidis, a bacterium with several distinct groups, or serogroups, that cause severe forms of meningitis.
Two main types of meningococcal vaccines are Meningococcal conjugate vaccines (MenACWY) and Meningococcal B vaccines (MenB). MenACWY vaccines, such as Menactra and Menveo, protect against serogroups A, C, W, and Y. These vaccines use parts of bacterial sugar chains linked to a protein to stimulate an immune response.
MenB vaccines, including Bexsero and Trumenba, specifically target serogroup B, a common cause of meningococcal disease in adolescents and young adults. Unlike MenACWY vaccines, MenB vaccines use proteins from the bacterial surface to stimulate immunity. A newer pentavalent vaccine, MenABCWY (e.g., Penbraya), also provides protection against serogroups A, B, C, W, and Y.
Recommended Vaccination Schedules
Meningitis vaccination frequency depends on age and vaccine type. For MenACWY, a routine schedule is recommended for adolescents. The first dose is typically given to preteens at 11 or 12 years of age. A booster dose is recommended at 16 years to ensure continued protection, as immunity can decrease over time.
For unvaccinated adults, MenACWY vaccination may be recommended, especially if they are at increased risk. Generally, a single dose is sufficient for adults, though some situations may require additional doses.
MenB vaccination has distinct recommendations, often for adolescents and young adults aged 16 through 23 years. The preferred age for MenB vaccination is between 16 and 18 years. The MenB vaccine is typically administered as a series of two doses, given several months apart, depending on the specific brand.
Specific Considerations for Vaccination
Certain individuals and groups may require additional meningitis vaccinations or booster doses due to increased risk.
High-Risk Groups
College students living in dormitories face a higher risk of meningococcal disease due to close living quarters, making MenACWY and MenB vaccination relevant. Military recruits also have an increased risk and are typically vaccinated.
Travel
Travelers heading to regions where meningococcal disease is more prevalent, such as the “meningitis belt” in sub-Saharan Africa, often require MenACWY vaccination. Proof of vaccination is often necessary for those traveling to certain pilgrimages, like the Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia. Consulting a healthcare provider before international travel is important.
Medical Conditions and Outbreaks
Individuals with specific medical conditions that compromise their immune system also require special consideration. This includes those with a damaged or removed spleen (e.g., sickle cell disease) or certain immune system deficiencies like complement component deficiencies. People taking certain medications that affect the immune system, such as complement inhibitors, also fall into this high-risk category. Vaccination may also be recommended during local outbreaks to limit disease spread.
Addressing Common Questions and Concerns
Meningitis vaccines are safe, with most people experiencing only mild, temporary side effects. Common reactions include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Some individuals may also experience headache, muscle pain, fatigue, or a low-grade fever. These effects usually resolve within a few days.
Meningococcal vaccines are effective at preventing the disease, though they may not prevent every case. Protection from MenACWY vaccines can decrease within five years, and MenB vaccine antibodies may decrease within one to two years, which is why booster doses are sometimes necessary. If a dose is missed, consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate next steps and catch up on the recommended schedule.
Vaccinations are available from various healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, local health departments, and some pharmacies. Discussing individual risk factors and vaccination history with a healthcare professional can help determine the most appropriate vaccination plan.